How Our Outpatient Therapy Supports the Alexandria Community

Hear from one of our expert physical therapists

For patients in Alexandria, MN, our outpatient therapy at Grand Arbor by Knute Nelson offers a path toward recovery. With a focus on aquatic, occupational, physical, and speech therapy, our certified therapists use the latest treatment techniques to nurture meaningful progress.

At the heart of outpatient therapy are specialized therapists like Eric Nefstead. As an LSVT® Certified physical therapist, Eric leans on evidence-based therapy to support patients with Parkinson’s disease and other neurological disorders. In his words, “here at Grand Arbor, I feel a sense of community where I can be a resource for people and help them in any way I can.”

Which types of conditions does outpatient therapy support?

Our Alexandria outpatient therapy clinic supports patients across a full range of conditions. Best said by Eric, “I am passionate about my work because we help people when they are close to or at their worst, whether after surgery, stroke, injury, general pain, or weakness.” As part of our process, we tailor our approach to each patient.

For example, our physical and aquatic therapy programs can help patients improve from pain, injuries, surgery, and other mobility limitations. Additionally, our occupational therapy programs empower patients to perform daily activities more effectively through holistic treatment plans and interventions. Meanwhile, our speech therapy programs focus on improving speaking, swallowing, breathing, and overall communication.

Does Knute Nelson offer specialty therapy programs?

Our commitment to delivering the best outpatient therapy in Alexandria includes specialty programs like Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT®), an evidence-based therapy approach centered on patients with chronic neurological diseases like Parkinson’s. These include LSVT® BIG to improve mobility and LSVT® LOUD to improve communication. We also offer VitalStim therapy, an electrical stimulation treatment to retrain the muscles used for swallowing.

From Eric’s perspective, “for Parkinson’s, LSVT® BIG focuses on re-calibrating the patient’s body and nervous systems to improve function, balance, strength, and overall quality of life.” Whether that’s getting out of bed, walking, or simply pouring a cup of coffee, Eric is focused on safely promoting larger and more normalized motions.

Through specialized therapists like Eric, who is also Lymphedema certified, we make the most of our abilities with tailored fitness and wellness strategies. In Eric’s words, “my lymphedema services can include exercises, manual therapy, compression wrapping, and assisted soft tissue mobilization when appropriate.”

Where is Knute Nelson Outpatient Therapy?

Conveniently located in the Nelson Wellness Center at our Grand Arbor campus, our Alexandria outpatient therapy clinic includes state-of-the-art equipment and facilities such as our warm water pool, cardio machines, and private treatment rooms.

Getting started with Knute Nelson Outpatient Therapy in Alexandria

At Knute Nelson, we are committed to getting you back on your feet. Along the way, our dedicated therapists are here to support your journey. In the words of Eric, "when I can use my knowledge to improve a patient’s life, that’s what really counts.”

For a full look at our outpatient therapy programs, we invite you to visit our website today. We can also be reached for questions at (320) 335-5763.

More about Eric Nefstead

Eric Nefstead is a dedicated Physical Therapist with nearly eight years of experience. He earned his undergraduate degree in Athletic Training from South Dakota State University and his Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of North Dakota. He is also LSVT® certified and holds a lymphedema certification, enhancing his ability to provide specialized care.

Since joining Grand Arbor in September of 2023, Nefstead has focused on outpatient care, bringing a wealth of experience from various settings including outpatient, home health, short-term rehabilitation, and skilled nursing facilities.

Passionate about helping people at their most vulnerable times, Nefstead thrives on utilizing his expertise to aid recovery from surgeries, strokes, injuries, or general pain and weakness. He finds fulfillment in seeing patients improve and values the sense of community at Grand Arbor, where he aims to be a helpful resource for many.

Outside of work, Nefstead enjoys life with his wife, their children, and pets. His hobbies include fishing, gardening, playing sports with his kids, and exercising when he can.